Molecular Biology and Genetics
The Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Genetics at METU is a rigorous undergraduate program designed to provide deep theoretical and practical knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and related life sciences disciplines. Through a mix of core courses, laboratory work, and research-oriented training, students develop expertise in the molecular mechanisms of living systems, genetic analysis, biotechnological methods, and experimental research. The program emphasizes both conceptual understanding and hands-on experience, equipping graduates for scientific inquiry and innovation.
Located in Ankara within a well-established academic faculty, this program combines fundamental biological sciences with advanced molecular and genetic studies. Students benefit from modern laboratory facilities and a curriculum designed to foster analytical thinking, experimental competence, and interdisciplinary perspectives. The education prepares them for careers in research, biotechnology, medicine-oriented science, environmental genetics, and further academic advancement.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Ankara
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English-medium)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Life Sciences
- Admission modus: Regular undergraduate admissions
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Biological & Basic Sciences
- General Biology I
- General Biology Laboratory I
- General Chemistry I
- Basic Mathematics I / Supporting Mathematics
- English for Academic Purposes I
Semester 2 – Foundations Continued
- General Biology II
- General Biology Laboratory II
- General Chemistry II
- Basic Mathematics II / Supporting Mathematics
- Introductory Computing / Information Technology Course
Semester 3 – Core Molecular & Genetic Sciences I
- Cell Biology
- Chemistry / Biochemistry Fundamentals
- Genetics I
- Supporting Science / Elective Courses
Semester 4 – Core Molecular & Genetic Sciences II
- Molecular Biology I
- Biochemistry I
- Genetics II
- Laboratory Methods & Experimental Techniques
Semester 5 – Advanced Molecular Biology & Biotechnology I
- Molecular Biology II
- Microbiology / Microbial Genetics
- Biochemistry II
- Laboratory / Experimental Techniques in Molecular Biology
Semester 6 – Advanced Topics & Applications
- Genetic Engineering / Biotechnology
- Genomics / Bioinformatics Basics
- Cell Physiology / Advanced Cell & Molecular Biology
- Electives or Supporting Courses
Semester 7 – Specialized Studies & Research Preparation
- Advanced Biotechnology / Specialized Genetics Topics
- Environmental & Evolutionary Genetics / Population Genetics (or elective)
- Research Methods / Experimental Design / Laboratory Practices
- Elective Courses
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Final Specialization
- Senior Project or Research Thesis / Experimental Research Project
- Advanced electives depending on specialization
- Laboratory Work / Data Analysis / Thesis Preparation
- Graduation preparation & professional readiness
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers in biomedical research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical industry, environmental genetics, genetic counseling labs, academic or applied research, bioinformatics, and further graduate studies (M.Sc. / Ph.D.). They may work as molecular biologists, geneticists, research scientists, lab analysts, biotechnology specialists, or continue their academic journey in life sciences.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Molecular Biology and Genetics program at METU offers a strong combination of foundational biological sciences and advanced molecular/genetic education. The program’s balance of theory, lab-based practice, and research-orientation provides a robust platform for careers in science, biotechnology and academic research.
With modern facilities, comprehensive curriculum, and interdisciplinary scope, the program enables students to develop critical thinking, experimental skills, and scientific expertise — ideal for those who aim to contribute to biological, medical or environmental science fields.
Contact Information
Middle East Technical University – Faculty of Arts and Sciences / Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics
Dumlupınar Boulevard No:1, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1234
Email: molbio@metu.edu.tr
Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics – Student Affairs Office
Faculty of Arts and Sciences, METU
06800 Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1235
Email: molbio-undergrad@metu.edu.tr
International Office – Middle East Technical University
METU Campus, 06800 Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1060
Email: ico@metu.edu.tr
